In the 14th century the various provinces were unified under one kingdom known as Siam until a bloodless revolution in 1932 led to a constitutional monarchy and the formation of Thailand as we know it today.

Thailand is the only south east Asian country never to have been overtaken by a European country, and it shows. Religion and monarchy are still the cornerstones of Thai culture, and they permeate everyday life. Over ninety percent of the population are practising Buddhists which colours all aspects of daily life - from the tiered temple rooftops that dominate every skyline, to the omnipresent saffron-robed monks and the packed calendar of cultural and religious festivals.

Because of its unique heritage you'll discover a fascinating interplay between tradition and modernity, most apparent in the bustling, exciting capital Bangkok - first stop on almost every tourists' itinerary.

Shimmering modern malls overlook resplendent temples, canal-side markets jostle for position next to crumbling concrete buildings and the opulent indulgence of the eighteenth-century Grand Palace draws attention away from the notorious night life of the Patpong strip. A true split personality, but always intriguing city.

Away from bustle of the city, no trip to Thailand would be complete without visiting some of the glorious islands dotted around the coastline such as peaceful Koh Samui, with its coconut groves and palm-fringed beaches. Or Phuket, the country's largest and most popular island thanks to an abundance of spectacular beaches, sparkling crystal-clear blue waters - ideal for diving, picturesque scenery and captivating historical sites.

And if you've looking for the ultimate in beach-side luxury, make tracks for the Hilton Phuket Arcadia Resort & Spa. The resort overlooks the stunning Karon Beach - a strip of golden sand, considered the best on the island. Set amid flower-splashed gardens, the resort makes the ideal base from which to explore this gem of an island -the "Pearl of the Andaman".

For somewhere a little more off-the-beaten-track, try the island of Ko Si Chang, a one-town island offshore from Chonburi Province on the Gulf of Thailand. It's practically deserted, making it great fun to explore. Its attractions include a meditation centre with hermit caves, beaches with good snorkelling, a ruined palace, limestone caves and a Chinese temple with sea views.

Back on the mainland, after touchdown in Bangkok, much of the package-holiday traffic flows east to Pattaya, a populous and popular beach resort, but a better bet is the peaceful town of Hua Hin.

Discovered in the early 1920s by King Rama VII as an ideal getaway from the sultry metropolis of the Capital, the tranquil fishing village was turned into a Royal resort with a summer palace where the King of Thailand still holidays today.

Thailand's oldest and most traditional resort combines the attractions of a modern holiday destination with the charm of a still active fishing port. And while most other Thai holiday destinations cater mainly to foreign tourists, Hua Hin had been a resort for Thais for more than 70 years.

Besides the king's palace, the other desirable place to stay is the Hilton Hua Hin Resort, a laid-back, peaceful retreat located in the centre of town overlooking a section of the five-mile Hua Hin Beach. A hotspot for golfers; six world-class courses are just minutes from the resort. And for the most breathtaking views of the Gulf of Siam book a table at the Resort's superb 17th floor rooftop restaurant.

For those with some time to explore, Thailand has treasures in all directions. The city of Chiang Mai in the north of the country is a particular must-see. With its striking mountain backdrop, over 300 temples and second to none shopping opportunities for silk and silverware bargains, the city is well worth the trek. Culture vultures will also want to check out Nakhon Pathom, west of Bangkok, the oldest city in Thailand and home to the 127m-high orange-tiled Phra Pathom Chedi, the tallest Buddhist monument in the world.

Wherever you travel in this most friendly (after all Thailand literally means land of smiles) and culturally rich of countries, the best of the east awaits you. Thailand's irresistible combination of natural wonders, ancient temples, sun-blessed beaches and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination. Put a date in your diary - you will not be disappointed.

• A Real Taste of Thailand